MAR-ICE Network

What is the MAR-ICE Network?

Marine Intervention in Chemical Emergencies (MAR-ICE) is a Europe wide network of experts to support maritime actors in the event of chemical emergency response at sea.

How does MAR-ICE work?

This network works on a 24/7 basis, upon request and free of charge. It provides an expert response within one hour of the request. The network consists of chemical experts and expertise from Cedre, Cefic, EMSA and the chemical industry.

How do you get in contact with the network of experts?

1. Get in contact with your authorized national MAR-ICE contact point. In some countries this is the local RCC and in some countries another actor.
a. The national MAR-ICE contact point is appointed by your country.
b. The MAR-ICE network has a list of authorized contact points; other persons/functions will not receive replies from the MAR-ICE network

2. Make sure that you have collected all the information for the MAR-ICE form.

3. Send the form through your national contact point, who will then start the expert support request process with MAR-ICE.

What kind of information does the network offer?

• Relevant HNS-specific documentation
• Additional expert advice on specific product properties and hazards through direct contact with a knowledgeable chemical company.
On a case-by-case basis and upon request, the service provides:
• Risk assessment for responders and the environment
• Drift and weathering modelling results, indicating areas potentially impacted by the released chemical
• Advice on response methods and options.

This network can also be used for exercises and drills.

Background

MAR-ICE was established by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) and is developed in cooperation with the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic) and the Centre of Documentation, Research and Experimentation on Accidental Water Pollution (Cedre, France). MAR-ICE is based on the voluntary land-based chemical spills network (ICE, Intervention in Chemical transport Emergencies). National marine pollution response authorities in the EU, EFTA, EEA coastal states and coastal EU Candidate Countries are allowed to use the services during emergencies, drills and exercises.